How To Build A Fence On Top Of A Retaining Wall (Do This!)
A retaining wall is more of a landscape than security. For added security, people who have retaining walls want something more. Putting a fence on top of a retaining wall is possible if the wall is already built.
Before the question is asked on “How to,” you should look into if the retaining wall can support a fence. Then look into what kind of fence you want on top of the retaining wall. We can then move on to how to build a fence on top of a retaining wall.
If the retaining wall can support the fence, you will need the fence post to pass through the wall. Depending on the type of fence, you will need braces, anchors, and bolts for mounting and support. Once the frame of the fence is in place, the rest should go quickly.
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What Is the Difference Between a Retaining Wall and a Fence?
A retaining wall is designed with landscaping in mind. It is used for keeping the soil in gardens, prevents erosions, lifts the land, or lifts flower beds. These walls are mostly made of concrete, bricks, treated timbers, and other long-lasting materials.
Fences are also made from different materials such as metal, wire, plywood, picket fences, brick, and concrete. They are used more for dividing property lines and privacy. When you put a fence on top of a retaining wall, you get both objectives served.
Things to Do Before the Project Begins
Safety measures and precautions need to get looked into before doing any project. Contact your municipal government before you do anything in construction. Yes, it may be your property, but there are guidelines to follow.
You may need a permit or have to go through some red tape according to city ordinances. Information will have to be handed over to the local officials, such as:
- What you are building
- Why you are building it
- Where you are building
- Materials you are using
- Plans for the construction
- If you are building it yourself
- If you are hiring licensed contractors
Once you give all the information about your plans, the local government can guide you on the steps, if any. Most of the time, there is not much to it. It depends on how high you want the wall and fence and where it is located. Naturally, the city does not want you digging around underground lines for electricity, phone, water, or sewage.
Informing the Neighbors On Building the Retaining Wall and Fence
It is the neighborly thing to do by letting your neighbors know your plans. Even if it is on your property, if anything you build affects the neighbor’s property, you are responsible. It works both ways because you would not want your neighbor doing that to you.
Any construction can affect your neighbor’s property. It may be suitable for your property, but things like drainage, erosion, or damage can become a severe problem. The property owner should give a notice to the neighbors no less than 28 days before construction.
The intentions, agreements, and permissions should be made clear before any construction takes place. If these stipulations are not met in some cities, the fines could be as high as $10,000 or jail time. No wall or fence should be worth that much money or problems.
Three Different Ways to Install a Fence With a Retaining Wall
If your retaining wall is already built, the stability of the wall determines everything in this project. These are three options you can choose from that will still add privacy and security to your border.
1. Build the Fence Three Feet Behind the Block
If the retaining wall cannot support a fence’s weight, build a full-sized fence three feet behind the block. It can keep the pressure off the foundation of the wall and hold the wall sturdy.
2. Build the Fence Behind the Block
This option may take a professional because the wall’s top needs to resist the fence’s force. It is a common way to build a fence with a retaining wall. It would be best if you had the reassurance, so you do not have to redo it.
3. Build the Fence On Top of the Wall Block
This process is the most challenging of all the options. The retaining wall must handle the weight of the fence, and you are limited on the height. The higher the fence, the stronger the retaining wall must be.
To build the sturdiest fence, the post must go through the wall and be secured with concrete. The posts will be the primary support for your frame. If it is secured with concrete, it will support both the wall and the fence.
DIY or Hire a Contractor
Once you look at the options, you should feel 100 percent confident if you want to do it yourself. If there is any doubt whatsoever, you should seek a licensed contractor. Either way, a plan needs to be in place and take effect for the best results.
Steps to Add a Fence On Top of a Concrete Retaining Wall
Out of all the materials used for the most reliable retaining walls, concrete walls are the best. There are two ways for the mounting, which is at the owner’s discretion. One is a FenceTrac fence system, and the other is a fence post mounting with metal base plates.
FenceTrac Fence System with U-Shaped Framework
This method is a patented device that holds the top and bottom of the fence together. It connects to the post at adjustable heights. Many fences that fit on top of retaining walls are built in this fashion.
Step 1: Install the Post Mount Trac
There are metal base brackets that bolt in at the four corners. The post fits inside the base and bolts into place.
Step 2: Add the Bottom Trac
Add the bottom Trac to the base of the top of the cement retaining wall. Secure it with the bolts in place.
Step 3: Add the Infill Material
Place the infill material into the U-shaped framework to make the wall of the fence. These will come in either vertical or horizontal. You will need to bolt each piece into place with the predrilled holes on the post.
Step 4: Finish with the Top U-Shaped Framework
Once the wall is built, place the top U-shaped framework over the boards and bolt everything into place.
Reasons You May Need a Retaining Wall Fence
There are many reasons to have a fence on top of a retaining wall. Some are for show, and others are to serve a purpose with safety and security. In this portion, we will cover the meanings behind the reasons, along with some examples.
1. Safety Purposes Over the Wall
Some retaining walls are high up. The law states if anyone gets hurt on your property, the property owner is responsible. A fence will keep people and pets from climbing over the wall and getting hurt.
Some locations, especially businesses, require a guardrail or fence for retaining walls 30 feet in height and over. By adding the fence on top of the wall, it will keep people and pets safe.
2. Keeping Privacy on Private Property
In some cities, people live too close to one another or close to businesses. People who enjoy their privacy do not appreciate it when neighbors or others stop and stare at them. Prying eyes and nosey neighbors are taken care of when fences go up.
3. It Adds Security for the homeowner
Some retaining walls are low to the ground in height. Everyone wants to feel as safe as possible at home. Adding a fence to the top of the retaining wall can keep those inside the home safe.
The fence will act as a barrier and deter people from crossing the boundary if the fence is high enough. If there is a gate at the entranceway, it says to strangers, “No Trespassing.”
4. Fences Add to the Look and Landscape
Some people like the look of fences. They may not be after privacy or security. Fences also come in metal bars, picket fences, and hurricane fences. Many people also have pets that they let out of the house and do not want to lose them.
People sometimes dream of homes enclosed with fences and gates. There is nothing wrong with the idea, and they can make it a reality.
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Related Questions
How much does it cost to build a retaining wall?
If you do it yourself, the average price is $10 per square foot. For a professional, it could cost up to $28 per square foot.
How long does a wooden retaining wall and fence last?
If the wood is treated, it can last up to 40 or more years.
Which type of fence is better, wood or metal, to put on top of a retaining wall?
Weight-wise, a lightweight metal is better, and for durability, they both last about the same if the wood is treated.
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